animal shelter

American  

[an-uh-muhl shel-ter] / ˈæn ə məl ˌʃɛl tər /

noun

1. an establishment, maintained by local government or supported by charitable contributions, that provides a temporary home for dogs, cats, and other animals that are offered for adoption, and puts to sleep homeless animals that have been deemed unsuitable for adoption.

   The animal shelter is requesting donations of old towels, blankets, and other linens.

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Etymology

Origin of animal shelter

First recorded in 1890–95

Example Sentences

Animal shelter staff identified him by his leg ring and were able to contact owner Alan Todd, from Gateshead, who jetted to the US to bring him back.

From BBC • Jul. 30, 2022

The Hopkins County Animal shelter has taken in about 90 dogs and about 120 cats from the hard-hit community of Dawson Springs since Dec. 11, The Messenger reported.

From Seattle Times • Jan. 1, 2022

Animal shelter staff was working through the night to assess and treat the animals.

From Seattle Times • Oct. 16, 2020

Animal shelter volunteers showed dogs and cats to try to match them with humans.

From Washington Times • May 4, 2020

Animal shelter experts and city management publications have praised the San Antonio turnaround.

From Washington Times • Jun. 26, 2016